Maybe you’re trained in first aid in CPR and know what to do in an emergency. Perhaps you have a general understanding but have not been formally trained. Either way, having access to an easy to use a defibrillator in Ontario can save lives—no matter what your medical background entails.
It’s all about location
Knowing what to do and having easy to understand instructions on a defibrillator (AED) are essential for saving lives. However, what if there are not enough defibrillators in easily accessible areas?
Thankfully, there are various organizations which have been advocating for more defibrillators to be placed around public spaces for those willing to use one in a cardiac emergency. Having AED machines easily accessible around town means there is never one too far away from a crisis situation.
Your city will undoubtedly benefit from having more defibrillators around, but these live-saving machines won’t be very helpful if it isn’t clear where they are available. Having the right signage is key, as is the exact location itself. It shouldn’t be in a locked area that is only accessible during certain periods or to certain people. Allowing the public to access AEDs is of the utmost importance.
Easy to use
Saving a life is the end goal of using a defibrillator. This can become problematic if the device is too confusing to understand, let alone complicated to find. Once the location is clear to a potential user, the machine should then aid the user every step of the way.
There are many different defibrillator options depending on the requirements of the area. All defibrillators come equipped with understandable and straightforward directions, with some aiding the user with audible directions or step by step visuals. You may also be wondering about the language that will be used on AEDs. You can choose between English or French, although with the very detailed visuals, you may not even need to hear or read much!
The directions for how to use a defibrillator are critical, as improper use could lead to an even worse medical situation for the patient and possibly the person administering help. AED machines come with different methods to ensure the user is fully aware of when to remove their hands from the patient and how to safely go through each step of the process.
The bottom line is that whether a member of the public is a medical professional or not, they should be able to use an easily accessible AED. It is important to check the location of the AED to ensure it is in a place that can be reached by anyone in need of using it. Saving lives really can be as easy as having enough defibrillators within easy reach and with clear and understandable instructions. When it’s a matter of life and death, nothing should get in the way.